This study, also called "The Reaching for Success Project," examined the social, psychological, and economic barriers to work experienced by recipients of the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program (TANF) under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996 (Public Law 104-193) in the state of Illinois. Given evidence that a significant proportion of TANF recipients have untreated co-occurring mental health and substance abuse difficulties, there is reason to believe that they experience extremely low levels of self-determination and require innovative service approaches and supports.

Our study found a high prevalence of current and lifetime mental health and substance abuse disorders among women receiving TANF. Most recipients who were found to have mental health disorders were not receiving needed mental health services.